The Kalamata, Greece, Earthquake of September 13, 1986

Abstract

This is a report on a recent earthquake that hit the Greek city of Kalamata on Sept. 13, 1986. The earthquake, although, moderately strong-reported magnitude Ms=6.2− caused heavy damage and killed 20 people. Strong-motion data are presented for the main event as well as from two recordings of the major aftershock. The records are interesting because they have been obtained at relatively small distances from the epicenter: approximately 9 km for the main event and 1 km for the major aftershock. Moreover, the soil profile at the recording site is known and is given here for complete documentation of the records. Very high spectral accelerations characterize the records and are partly responsible for the total or partial collapse of seven modern reinforced concrete buildings. A survey of damage is also presented with comments on its causes, in relation to the applicable seismic regulations and to local construction practices.